As a new generation of women are discovering other cultures' ancient traditions for better birthing experiences, they are also discovering better ways to heal their bodies after birth. Binding the stomach offers support, stability and comfort to the muscles, skin and internal organs. Wearing the bind promotes healing and repair to the postpartum body. During pregnancy, the vertical abdominal muscles widen and thin to accommodate growing babies, which can result in diastasis recti. Diastasic recti is when the muscles separate, creating back issues, hernias and bulging of the abdomen. Binding is an excellent way to bring the muscle walls back together. In doing so, supports spine and posture realignment.

 

Binding is considered very emotionally healing for postpartum mothers. Pregnancy opens and fills up the body with life and binding is considered a ceremony of “sealing” the body in which pregnancy ends and the woman now transitions into motherhood. During pregnancy a woman’s body retains water, fat, and air which cause her body to swell and expand, including the organs in the womb area such as the cervix and vagina. The water retained by cells supports the amniotic fluid and the purpose of the air is to cushion the baby, the mother’s internal organs, and bones as her center of gravity shifts and her baby growos bigger and bigger. This is why a pregnant woman gets so swollen during the last months of pregnancy. When a baby is born, the excess water, fat, and air are no longer needed and the cells will naturally release and shrink back to their pre-pregnancy size. However, the purpose of a post-pregnancy wrap is to speed up this process with constant pressure on the abdomen and torso area.

 

 

Belly bindings are traditionally worn for 40 days and binding can start as soon as 3-4 days after a vaginal delivery and 6 weeks after a cesarean. Using at least 12 yards of fabric, the bind wraps from the mother’s hips to the rib cage. There’s no slipping, stretching, or uncomfortable pressure on the abdomen. The fluidity in the fabric allows it to form to the needs of your body for comfort and mobility.